CB Darian Hicks of Solon High School, OhioThe Spartans will graduate All-Big Ten cornerback Johnny Adams after this year and could use a lockdown coverage player for the class of 2013. The Spartans offered Hicks early in the process and are considered one of the favorites for his services. Michigan State's reputation for developing quality defensive backs cannot hurt its chances with the 6-foot-0, 175-pound prospect. Hicks has over a dozen scholarship offers at this point, but look for this come down to the Spartans versus Penn State.

Under Mark Dantonio the Spartans have become arguably the most feared and aggressive defensive team in the Big Ten. Much of that is predicated on ability to get after the passer, and that is where James comes in. The Spartans like his ability to come off the edge. James has been to East Lansing twice in recent weeks and his recruitment looks like it will come down to a Spartans versus Badgers battle.

Williams attends the same school as current Spartan quarterback commitment James Terry and he could be the next recruit toverbal to Michigan State. The Spartans like Williams' versatility and he informed SpartanMag.com that the coaches have told him he could play safety, linebacker or even some offense if need be. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Williams has seen his offer list explode in recent weeks and he now has scholarships comparable with a high 3-star if not 4-star recruit.

The recruitment of Allen makes a lot of sense if you are looking at things from a Spartans perspective. Not only is Allen one of the hardest hitters in the class of 2012, but he comes from the same high school and plays the same position as current All-Big Ten safety Isaiah Lewis. Allen could come to Michigan State, have a chance to learn from Lewis, and then step in and be a 3-yaer starter. Iowa and Purdue are other teams that are actively involved at this point.

DE Kevin Robbins of Bishop McNamara High School, MarylandThe 6-foot-4, 235-pound Robbins is an interesting prospect for a variety of reasons. The first is that he is the son of a former Spartan and NFL offensive lineman, Kevin Robbins Sr. The second is that he has the size to play defensive end, but could easily play on the offensive side at tight end. He could also fill out considerably and be a 3-technique DT. Robbins plans on coming to East Lansing for the Green and White Game. Robbins has a dozen scholarship offers on the table.